Abbas Mimiko, the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) candidate in the ongoing Ondo State governorship election, has strongly urged voters to resist the temptation of selling their votes. He made this call during an interaction with journalists at his polling unit as he awaited accreditation on Saturday. Mimiko emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the election process and warned against the damaging practice of vote-buying, which he believes undermines the democratic process.
In his address, Mimiko commended the security personnel for their dedication and efforts in ensuring order at the polling stations, acknowledging the security agencies’ positive role in maintaining peace. He also called on all relevant stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the law enforcement agencies, to uphold the principles of a free, fair, and credible election.
Mimiko noted that from the reports reaching his campaign, there appears to be a relative calm and peace in the state, with law enforcement agencies seemingly living up to expectations. He praised INEC for conducting its duties impartially, and expressed confidence that the right decisions would be made at the highest levels of government. He also made it clear that it is the responsibility of the people of Ondo State to decide not to engage in corrupt practices such as vote-buying, which he said is prevalent in various locations.
He urged voters not to sell their futures for short-term financial gain, particularly calling out those who may be tempted by offers as low as N20,000. Mimiko appealed to voters to think about the future of their children and the long-term consequences of their decisions at the polls. He encouraged them to vote for a candidate of their choice who would guide the state towards better governance and help uplift the people of Ondo State from poverty to a position of pride.